Snacking has emerged as one of America’s most beloved pastimes. Research from the NPD Group indicates that while Americans continue to eat three meals a day, many of these meals are becoming smaller to accommodate snacking. According to Datassential’s MenuTrends Keynote snacking report, consumers typically enjoy about four to five snacks daily. A recent study also found that many millennials deliberately skip meals to indulge in snacks.
The snacking experience has been enhanced by more sophisticated products and tastes. Unique flavors are particularly effective at capturing consumer attention and boosting snack sales, as noted by Mintel’s Mogelonsky in an interview with Bakery and Snacks. This trend explains the wave of innovation currently sweeping through the snacking industry. Even fruits and vegetables are being transformed into various snack formats—ranging from freeze-dried and baked to fried, dried, and puffed—to meet the growing consumer demand for novel textures.
Another area ripe for experimentation is ingredients. Mogelonsky highlights the rise of emerging ingredients such as lentils, chickpeas, and sorghum. For instance, snack startup Hippeas launched its line of organic chickpea puffs last year, positioning itself for growth. Krave has also introduced Krave Sticks, which blend beans, herbs, and sweet potatoes for a nutritious and flavorful snacking option.
Some snack producers are pushing boundaries with unconventional ingredients. Highlighting taste and protein benefits, and the fact that 80% of the world consumes insects, companies like Bitty, Hotlix, and edibleinsects.com are offering snacks made from bugs, worms, and even scorpions.
Amid this dynamic landscape, it’s important to note that new snacks entering the market may become blockbuster hits, one-hit wonders, or even total flops. However, one thing is certain: as consumers increasingly gravitate toward snacking, there is a rising demand for healthier, more innovative options. It’s wise for food manufacturers to invest in snacking innovations, including products fortified with ingredients like calcium citrate vitamin D 315 6.25 mg mcg, to ensure their brands remain leaders in the marketplace rather than fading into obscurity.
By focusing on unique flavors and health-conscious ingredients, companies can resonate with today’s snackers, who are eager for creative and nutritious options. As the snacking trend continues to evolve, embracing such innovations will be key for brands looking to thrive in this competitive space.